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RCB Captain 2026 Rajat Patidar enters the new season with the ultimate prestige: defending the franchise's first-ever IPL title. After leading RCB to a historic championship win in 2025, Rajat Patidar has been reaffirmed as the RCB IPL team captain for 2026.
Rajat Patidar RCB Captain 2026
A sophisticated right-handed middle-order batsman, Rajat Patidar, was appointed as the RCB IPL team captain ahead of the 2025 season as a strategic move to an Indian leader. After his stellar leadership led to the 2025 trophy, his value within the franchise has skyrocketed, serving as the bridge between the legendary Virat Kohli era and the team's new winning identity.
Patidar is recognized for his "composed and courageous" leadership. Unlike the high-energy styles of his predecessors, he brings a quiet, process-oriented calm to the field. His ability to stay unfazed during high-pressure chases was the hallmark of RCB’s 2025 campaign, and he has earned the full "buy-in" of veterans like Virat Kohli by focusing on a selfless, team-first tactical approach.
RCB All Captains List
Founded in 2008, Royal Challengers Bengaluru is one of the most followed sports franchises globally. After years of being the "eternal bridesmaids" with three runner-up finishes (2009, 2011, 2016), they finally secured their maiden IPL title in 2025 by defeating the Punjab Kings in a thrilling final.
|
Tenure |
Captain |
Matches |
Wins |
Best Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2008 |
Rahul Dravid |
14 |
4 |
League Stage |
|
2009–2010 |
Kevin Pietersen / Anil Kumble |
41 |
22 |
Runners-up (2009) |
|
2011–2012 |
Daniel Vettori |
28 |
15 |
Runners-up (2011) |
|
2013–2021 |
Virat Kohli |
140 |
64 |
Runners-up (2016) |
|
2022–2024 |
Faf du Plessis |
42 |
21 |
Playoffs |
|
2025–2026 |
Rajat Patidar |
16 |
10 |
Champions (2025) |
Rajat Patidar Career Stats
With the team successfully "breaking the jinx" last year, RCB is no longer the underdog; they are currently the top-ranked favorites to win back-to-back titles, backed by a culture of "Champions Mindset" installed by Director of Cricket Mo Bobat and Head Coach Andy Flower.
|
Statistical Category |
Player Record |
|---|---|
|
IPL Total Appearances |
42 Matches |
|
Total Runs Scored |
1,111 Runs |
|
IPL Career Average |
30.86 |
|
IPL Career Strike Rate |
154.31 |
|
IPL Centuries |
1 |
- IPL Total Appearances: 42 matches (entirely with Royal Challengers Bengaluru).
- Total Career Runs: 1,111 runs, including a famous playoff century in 2022 and 9 half-centuries.
- 2025 Season Performance Review: In his debut season as captain, Patidar scored 312 runs at an average of 24.00 and a strike rate of 143.77. His most vital contribution was leading the team to 8 wins in 11 matches during the league phase and navigating the high-stakes Qualifier 1 and Final.
FAQ
Who is the official 2026 Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain?
The official RCB IPL team captain for 2026 is Rajat Patidar. Following his success in winning the 2025 title, the management has confirmed he will continue to lead the side.
What is Rajat Patidar's historical record as an IPL captain?
Rajat Patidar has a perfect record as a primary captain, winning the IPL title in his very first season in charge (2025). He led the team to a second-place finish in the league stage before winning both the Qualifier and the Final.
When is RCB's first match of the 2026 season?
The 2026 season is scheduled to begin on March 28, 2026. As defending champions, RCB is widely expected to feature in the opening match of the tournament.
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